Most people have known or heard of someone they know being arrested for DUI. Though everyone has heard the term “DUI” most do not comprehend exactly what it is.

One misconception is that you can only be cited while driving a car, which is wrong. Operating motorcycles, boats, trucks and planes are subject to DUI charges, also. DUI means “Driving Under the Influence”, but many refer to it as drunk driving and that is not correct. Drunk driving is alcohol related whereas DUI involves other drugs legal, or not.

Since a DUI is treated in the same manner as any other criminal offense, the consequences are also more severe. The reasoning behind this is that before you can get a driver’s license that you have to pass the written test and part of that is proving knowledge of what driving under the influence entails. In addition, if you are caught and charged with a DUI then you not only put yourself at risk, but also everyone else on the road.

Typically, a DUI is determined by your Blood Alcohol Content or BAC. However, that is not the only way that you can be convicted of a DUI. The legal limits vary from state to state so you need to be sure that you are aware of what your local limits are.

Again though, not only traditional alcoholic beverages can lead to your conviction of DUI. If you are under the influence of illicit drugs, you are impaired and should not be driving. Some prescription drugs indicate that you should not operate machinery while taking them. If you choose to get behind the wheel then you may be putting yourself and others at risk.

One way that you never dreamed you could risk a DUI is from your cough syrup and cold medicine. These often time have an alcohol content and if too much is taken could reap a DUI for you.

It is hard to say what the consequences of a DUI are since the states do have their own sets of laws. Common punishments are suspended driver’s licenses or restrictions, probation, fines or time in jail.

Finally, there is the consequence you don’t think of and that is your automobile insurance. If you are arrested for a DUI and convicted you will have to fill out an SR-22 form and your insurance company may opt to drop you and since you are now “high risk” you also face higher premiums and deductibles because you are considered high risk.

This information is provided solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

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